He was knocked unconscious and was given CPR by an off-duty midwife at the scene in Heaton Park.

But his condition deteriorated and he lost his battle for life in hospital yesterday morning.

Police are now trying to trace the man who assaulted and have urged him to come forward.

His heartbroken mum Elaine, brother Richard and girlfriend Gemma Parry backed the appeal, adding: "Robert's loss of life through his love of music have left his family and friends empty and beyond pain.

"It was the day the music died."

Brother Richard, from Macclesfield, posted on the Manchester Evening News website : "Miss you brother, my son will become a complete double act of you .. Your memory will be continued within L8s he absolutely adored you 'big ugly man' .... 'Small pale child' xxxx"

Robert, originally from Macclesfield and a former Fallibroome High student, was living in Liverpool with his girlfriend Gemma Parry and worked in the call centre of a high street bank.

Wanted: Police have issued this Evofit of the man who attacked Robert

He travelled to Manchester on the day of the festival and went to meet friends in Miles Platting before making his way to Heaton Park.